A two-layer nanofiber-Tragacanth hydrogel composite containing Lavender extract and Mupirocin as a wound dressing

Dressing plays important role in wound healing. Hydrogels are three-dimensional structural systems with outstanding properties for wound dressing. However, conventional preformed hydrogels lack versatility in different models and applications. In the present study, two-layer nanofiber-hydrogel nanocomposite was prepared, and their potential application as a dressing was considered. The first layer was made of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) by electrospinning method. Tragacanth hydrogel containing Lavandula angustifolia extract (LAV) and Mupirocin (MUP) was sprayed on the electrospun nanofiber layers as the second layer. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images of nanofibers showed very fine and continuous fibers with an average diameter 420 nm. Also, SEM images of the cross section of the two-layer dressing confirmed the formation of hydrogel on the nanofibers. The nanofibers showed strong mechanical properties as Young’s modulus. The elongation at break was reduced for bilayers containing hydrogel. In vitro cell viability tests showed that two-layer nanofiber-Tragacanth hydrogel composite has no cytotoxicity. Antibacterial properties of the dressing showed a significant effect on inhibiting Staphylococcus aureus. The test results showed that spraying hydrogel on nanofiber layer has dual advantages of electrospun fiber and hydrogel, such as ECM-like fiber structure, high water retention and excellent biocompatibility.